Health insurance is supposed to give us peace of mind, right? But for many women in India, it often comes with an unexpected cost. From higher premiums to stricter claim rules, women frequently find themselves paying more while getting less.
Take this example: a 29-year-old woman recently bought a health policy only to discover her premium was almost 20% higher than that of her male colleagues, even though the cover was the same. Why? Extra charges for maternity, “women’s illnesses” tagged as high-risk, and tighter scrutiny when making claims. Sadly, her case isn’t unusual.
What’s Behind This Inequality?
Maternity loading – Having a baby is one of the most predictable health events, yet maternity benefits are rarely included in standard policies. They usually come as pricey add-ons with long waiting periods.
High-risk labels – Conditions such as PCOS, thyroid problems, osteoporosis, and breast cancer are common among women. Instead of being covered as standard, insurers often treat them as “high-risk” and push up costs.
Stricter checks – Claims connected to reproductive or hormonal health are more likely to face detailed scrutiny, which can delay payouts or lead to rejections.
The irony? Women are usually more diligent with their health – booking regular check-ups, sticking to treatments, and making fewer reckless claims.
A Chance for Change
Industry voices say this is actually an opportunity. Rather than seeing reproductive health or maternity as a burden, insurers could design products that truly support women throughout their lives. Fairer policies would not only help women, but also build greater trust in the insurance sector.
So what might make a difference?
Inclusive policies – Some insurers have begun offering plans that cover PCOS, breast cancer, and maternity. If more companies follow, it could bring down costs overall.
Clearer rules – The Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI) has already simplified documents and standardised terms, making it easier to understand what’s actually covered.
Informed consumers – The more women ask the right questions when choosing a policy, the more pressure insurers will feel to improve their products.
Questions Every Woman Should Ask Before Buying Health Insurance
Does this plan cover maternity, and what’s the waiting period?
Are conditions like PCOS or breast and cervical cancer included without extra loading?
What exclusions apply, and how often are claims related to women’s health actually approved?